One: As we walk into the wilderness, setting our face toward the cross,All: The Holy Spirit is with us.
One: As we focus and prepare, fasting by letting go and by taking on,All: The Holy Spirit is with us.
One: Facing temptations, finding help from unexpected quarters,All: The Holy Spirit is with us.
One: Come, let us seek God’s way together.

The God of creation does not begin work only to abandon it. The good thing that God has begun in you will continue until the day of Christ’s return and, then, eternally. Hear and receive in your hearts and minds to forgiveness of all your sins, consolation for all your griefs, affirmation of your gifts, and hope for your tomorrows. All of this is true and possible, through Jesus Christ- our Savior and Lord!
AMEN.